Aluminium spacer bars are rigid metal components used in double glazing to maintain the separation between glass panes, improving thermal performance and window longevity. They are typically available in various colors like silver, black, or bronze and can be either standard or bendable. Accessories for these bars include corner keys and connectors made of plastic or steel, which are used to assemble the insulating glass unit.
Aluminium spacer bar
- Primary function: To maintain a consistent, sealed gap between the two panes of glass in an insulating glass unit (IGU). This gap is typically filled with a desiccant to absorb moisture and prevent condensation.
- Material: Made from aluminum strips and formed using high-frequency welding, providing rigidity and structural integrity.
- Types:
- Standard: Non-bendable bars that are rigid and often used in manual systems. They are suitable for creating Georgian frames because they are simple to drill.
- Bendable: Bars that can be bent to create curved shapes, which is useful for windows with non-rectangular designs.
- Colors and finishes: Available in various finishes, including: Mill finish (silver)
- Performance: While standard aluminum bars are common, they can have poor thermal performance (high Psi value) compared to "warm edge" alternatives, which can lead to energy loss and condensation at the glass edge.
Accessories for aluminum spacer bars
- Corner keys: These are used to connect the spacer bars at the corners, creating a continuous frame. They are available in different materials like plastic or steel.
- Connectors: These are used to join straight sections of spacer bar together. Like corner keys, they are available in plastic or steel.
- Desiccant: A material placed inside the spacer bar frame to absorb moisture from the air within the sealed unit.
- Sealant: The spacer bar is sealed to the glass using a primary seal and then a secondary seal with materials like silicone, which are compatible with the spacer bar.